From the turquoise calm of the Maldives to the icy silence of Svalbard, each of these extraordinary destinations offer a strong sense of place combined with experiences that will stay with you for years to come, whether through wildlife, landscape, design or cultural depth.
HERITANCE AARAH, THE MALDIVES
Located in the Raa Atoll (quieter and more exclusive than its UNESCO neighbour, the Baa Atoll), Heritance Aarah is a private island resort that stands out for offering Maldivian escapism in conjunction with an unusually generous premium all-inclusive concept, where dining, select excursions and wellness touches are built into the experience rather than added on.
Heritance Aarah brings a stronger sense of place than many other island resorts, thanks to its culture-led dining and heritage elements that connect guests to the archipelago at a more meaningful level.
Accommodation ranges from beach villas to overwater villas and spacious ocean suites, with features such as private decks, direct sea access and, in some categories, glass-bottom floors. The resort is also notable for its sustainability credentials, including LEED Gold and Green Globe certification. More information and bookings, HERE.
TRAVELLERS’ TALES SVALBARD EXPEDITION
Travellers’ Tales is launching its first privately chartered Arctic voyage, the Ultimate Svalbard Safari, a conservation-minded small-group expedition through one of the world’s last great wildernesses. Set deep within the High Arctic, Svalbard is uniquely compelling for its vast glaciers, shifting pack ice, extreme light and remarkable concentration of wildlife, from polar bears to walrus and whales.
The ship, the R/V Kinfish, was originally constructed in 1958 and fully refurbished in 2018. It accommodates 12 guests in en-suite cabins and offers expansive deck space for photography and wildlife observation. Its size allows access to narrow fjords and shallow coastal areas that are beyond the reach of larger expedition ships.
Limited to 12 guests, this incredible voyage includes zodiac landings, expert briefings, historic sites and a donation to Polar Bears International. Dates: 7–17 July 2027; From £12,750pp, including one night in Longyearbyen, nine aboard, meals, excursions, lectures and transfers.
To begin planning, book an online consultation, HERE; call 0203 931 5500; or visit the Travellers’ Tales bookshop in Marylebone for an in-person discussion.
VICTORIA FALLS SAFARI LODGE, ZIMBABWE
Victoria Falls is one of those rare destinations that delivers on all its promises. They are unique in the world for the sheer scale and force of their water, creating the largest sheet of falling water at peak flow and a spray visible for miles. Its drama lies not only in the falls themselves, but in the way they fuse raw natural spectacle with rainforest, river, wildlife and adventure on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia.
A stay at Victoria Falls Safari Lodge adds a particularly memorable dimension: set on a plateau overlooking Zambezi National Park, it offers front-row views of a busy watering hole where elephants, giraffes and other wildlife gather throughout the day. Game drives, close-up encounters from the hide and the club’s strong conservation commitments deepen the experience, making this far more than a visit to the falls alone. It is a richly layered African escape. More information and reservations, HERE.
CASAS ELILULA, BRAZIL
Casas Elilula captures the quiet seduction of Preá, on Brazil’s northeastern coast, where wide sands, constant winds and an easy barefoot rhythm offer a more discreet alternative to Jericoacoara. Conceived as a family project and designed by the owners’ architect daughter, the retreat comprises three beachfront casas crafted from local wood, palm thatch and natural materials, with tropical gardens and a central pool.
Interiors mix bespoke pieces, Brazilian modernist references and a warm indoor-outdoor flow. Sustainable touches, including a solar farm, sea-breeze cooling and filtered water, add substance to its barefoot appeal. Learn more about Casas Elilula, HERE.
Author: Julia Pasarón
Lead image: The best way to enjoy the majesty of the Victoria Falls is by air. I-M Inquisitive Minds’ James Rampton flew with Zambezi Helicopters.
R/V Kinship image © Natural World Safaris
Polar Bears image © Marko Dimitrijevic
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